This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Visit the Royal Collection

Portraiture

Prince Albert was an early adopter of portrait photography

JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

Princess Louise, later Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939), and Princess Helena (1846-1923)

Jun 1860

Albumen print | 7.7 x 5.2 cm (image) | RCIN 2900360

Photograph of a full length double portrait of Princess Louise, later Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939), and Princess Helena (1846-1923). Princess Louise, on the left, stands facing three-quarters to the right. She places her left hand on her sister's shoulder and holds a flower in her left hand. Princess Helena is seated, facing three-quarters to the left. She looks down at a book she holds open with her right hand, positioning the book in front of her chest. The sisters are dressed in a similar fashion.

  • Creator(s)

    John Jabez Edwin Mayall (1813-1901) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Princess Helena (1846-1923)
    Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939)

  • annotation: Princefs Louise and Princefs Helena./ June. 1860./ Mayall. [beneath work]

  • 7.7 x 5.2 cm (image)

    31.0 x 24.7 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
PreviousNext
PreviousNext
Policy links
Royal Collection TrustIn Partnership with

Royal Collection Trust is a charity caring for the Royal Collection and welcoming visitors to the royal palaces. We bring our shared history to life through world-class experiences that involve and inspire people, wherever they are. Income from tickets and retail sales helps us to conserve the Collection so that it can be enjoyed by everyone for generations to come.